Yesterday, was one of those events that most authors consider a failure. It was a local book festival in our small community and few of us sold many books. Some people left early—leaving large vacant areas in the rows of booths. And many of those who stayed until the end were grumbling loudly about not having sold books.
One in particular, had been in a booth near mine. I watched him throughout the day speak with many, many parents and grandparents who expressed quite an interest in his lovely children’s books. He schmoozed with other authors. He set up a book signing at a new bookstore not too far from his home. I guess he doesn’t realize the value of exposure at events such as this.
Sure, on the spot sales are nice. But authors must get over the belief that sales are the only thing. This author got great exposure. There are people now who know about his books who didn’t before. If he had a sign-up sheet, he has names of people who are interested in his books. He made at least one good contact where he has the opportunity to get additional exposure and maybe make some sales. And this is a whole lot more action than he would have gotten had he stayed home on this rather foggy Saturday.